A special tie binds Kiwanis-family members

02.12.12

Take a club history of engagement and generosity. Combine it with the individual passion and practical knowledge of club members. Then present an opportunity like The Eliminate Project. At the Kiwanis Club of Utica-Shelby Township, Michigan, it all adds up to a 100K Club commitment.

Utica Kiwanians are no strangers to generosity on an international scale. Like many Kiwanis clubs, Utica has members who were part of Kiwanis International’s global campaign against iodine deficiency disorders. Several members are also involved with good causes overseas.

“Those members were instrumental in our decision,” says Kelley Mires, club president during the 2010–11 Kiwanis year. “They know how hard it can be to get things done in other countries.” They also know what’s possible.

Club leadership and a Major Gift from member Ray Weingartz spearheaded giving. Member donations and club fundraisers have kept the inspiration rolling. Earmarking funds for The Eliminate Project activities in the club’s budget helps the club maintain local involvement.

“None of the money we’re raising for the campaign is taking away from our local projects,” Mires says. “It’s not a matter of ‘instead of.’ It’s ‘in addition to.’”

The club has even strengthened local ties to The Eliminate Project by involving its sponsored Service Leadership Program clubs. The Eliminate Project is engaging Kiwanians too. Thanks to its commitment, Mires says, the club has done more than simply avoid tension between local and global. The excitement has reinvigorated many members.

“Some members have gotten more involved than they ever have,” she says.

Read more about the club’s decision and the creative fundraising methods they’re using to reach their goal.